Adam Smiley Poswolsky

In the wake of the pandemic, most employees prefer hybrid work and would leave a job without a hybrid policy. However, the focus often remains on when employees are in the office versus at home. Workplace belonging expert Smiley Poswolsky believes the key question is why people come together. Smiley argues that hybrid work is about future connections, not location. Employees often find themselves commuting only to see their team working remotely or on Zoom calls all day. Attendees will learn five ways to build a high-performing hybrid workplace, foster psychological safety, and build trust in a hybrid environment.

In today's nonstop, overwhelmed workplace dominated by Zoom meetings and Slack messages, workplace connection has diminished. With 43% of employees feeling disconnected from coworkers, 38% lacking trust, and 22% having no friends at work, disengagement is at an all-time high. Lonely employees are less productive, costing U.S. employers $406 billion annually. High levels of belonging, however, can save companies $52 million a year. Attendees will learn five ways to increase workplace belonging, understand and foster psychological safety, avoid proximity bias, and implement cost-free team habits to combat burnout and low morale.

In this timely, interactive, and actionable presentation, Smiley Poswolsky argues that the future of work hinges on human connection. Post-pandemic, 70% of employees feel disconnected, leading to lower productivity and retention. Conversely, fostering workplace belonging boosts resilience, well-being, and growth, resulting in a 56% increase in job performance and a 170% increase in employer promoter score. Well-connected employees can save large organizations up to $52 million annually. Attendees will learn five ways to enhance workplace connection, foster psychological safety, improve onboarding and training, and see a real-life example of a company that successfully built employee connections.

Loneliness pervades society today, with half of Americans feeling isolated and disconnected, especially in the workplace where team cohesion falters. Yet, the research underscores the profound impact of workplace friendships on engagement. Adam "Smiley" Poswolsky, in his recent book "Friendship in the Age of Loneliness," advocates prioritizing friendships as a solution to modern pressures. He offers strategies for leaders to foster connections, boost team performance, and enhance well-being. Through practical habits and playful exercises, Smiley emphasizes the importance of nurturing relationships within and beyond work. Attendees will gain insights into creating a culture of connection, fostering psychological safety, and deepening meaningful bonds, empowering individuals and organizations to thrive.

As the war for talent intensifies and the labor market tightens, five generations are converging in a dynamic hybrid workplace for the first time. To overcome intergenerational tension and misunderstandings, leaders must foster a culture of trust and belonging. In this engaging and actionable presentation, workplace belonging expert Smiley Poswolsky will guide you on attracting, retaining, and engaging future talent through purpose, flexibility, well-being, and human connection. Attendees will learn five keys to engaging a multigenerational workforce, understand Gen-Z's workplace expectations, and discover strategies to foster collaboration and trust across generations.